U1659 – Lost Communication with Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) Control Module.

The ODBII code U1659 indicates a loss of communication between the vehicle’s control module and the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) control module, suggesting a potential issue with wiring, connectors, or the IPC itself.

The severity of ODBII code U1659 is moderate to severe.

Common Causes For: U1657 Invalid or Missing Data for Vehicle Speed.

• Faulty Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) Control Module
• Damaged wiring or connectors
• Poor ground connections
• Faulty communication network (CAN bus issues)
• Corroded terminals
• Software or firmware issues
• Blown fuses
• Other module malfunctions affecting communication

Common misdiagnosis for U1659 Lost Communication with Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) Control Module.

• Faulty Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC)
• Wiring issues or shorts in the communication lines
• Faulty Body Control Module (BCM)
• Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
• Corrupted software or firmware in the IPC or BCM
• Battery or charging system issues
• Grounding problems
• Faulty connectors or terminals
• Issues with the CAN bus system
• Other communication-related DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) misinterpretation

Common Troubleshooting Steps

When dealing with the OBD-II code U1659, which indicates “Lost Communication with Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) Control Module,” there are several common troubleshooting steps you can follow to diagnose and potentially resolve the issue. Here’s a structured approach:

• Check for Additional Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any other trouble codes that may be present. This can provide additional context and help identify related issues.
• Inspect the Wiring and Connectors: **Visual Inspection: Check the wiring harness and connectors related to the IPC for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
• **Connector Pins: Ensure that the pins in the connectors are not bent, corroded, or pushed back.
• Check Power and Ground: **Power Supply: Verify that the IPC is receiving the correct voltage. Use a multimeter to check the power supply to the IPC.
• **Ground Connections: Ensure that the ground connections for the IPC are secure and free of corrosion.
• Inspect the IPC Module: **Physical Condition: Check the IPC for any signs of physical damage or water intrusion.
• **Re-seat the Module: If possible, disconnect and reconnect the IPC to ensure a good connection.
• Check for Communication Issues: **CAN Bus Communication: Use a scan tool to check if other modules in the vehicle are communicating properly. If other modules are also having communication issues, it may indicate a problem with the CAN bus.
• **Network Integrity: Inspect the CAN bus wiring for shorts, opens, or other issues.
• Perform a Hard Reset: Disconnect the vehicle’s battery for a few minutes to reset the vehicle’s electronic systems. Reconnect and see if the code reappears.
• Update or Reprogram the IPC: If the IPC is not functioning correctly, it may need to be reprogrammed or updated with the latest software from the manufacturer.
• Replace the IPC: If all other troubleshooting steps fail and the IPC is determined to be faulty, consider replacing the instrument panel cluster.
• Consult Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): Check for any TSBs related to the IPC or communication issues for your specific vehicle make and model. Manufacturers may have specific fixes or recommendations.
• Seek Professional Help: If you are unable to resolve the issue after these steps, it may be best to consult a professional mechanic or dealership for further diagnosis.Conclusion Troubleshooting U1659 requires a systematic approach to identify the root cause of the communication loss. By following these steps, you can narrow down the potential issues and take appropriate action to resolve the problem.